beset
12 synonyms and 1 antonym for beset, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To trouble or threaten from many directions at once, especially with difficulties or dangers.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
unbeset
How to use beset
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
beset by problems
beset with difficulties
beset by doubt
Etymology
From Old English besettan, "to surround or occupy" — built from "be-" (around) plus "set."
Full origin of beset →Frequently asked questions
What does “beset” mean?
The word “beset” means to trouble or threaten from many directions at once, especially with difficulties or dangers. In plain terms, usually seen as "beset by" — surrounded or plagued by problems, dangers, or doubts.
How do you pronounce “beset”?
“Beset” is pronounced bih-SEHT (/bəˈsɛt/ in IPA).
How do you use “beset” in a sentence?
Here is “beset” used in a sentence: “The expedition was beset by bad weather and equipment failures.”
What is the opposite of “beset”?
The opposite of “beset” — its antonyms — is unbeset.
What part of speech is “beset”?
“Beset” is a verb.
Where does the word “beset” come from?
The word “beset” comes from Old English. From Old English besettan, "to surround or occupy" — built from "be-" (around) plus "set.".
Is “beset” a common word?
“Beset” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “beset” have?
“Beset” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to trouble or threaten from many directions at once, especially with difficulties or dangers.
